Issuu

March through May 2018

Library programs & events

for kids, teens and adults

Kids Baby Time For babies 0-15 months and parent or caregiver. Learn songs, rhymes and fingerplays to use with your baby every day. Drop-in. March 1-May 18 (No programs March 30 or April 2) Mondays, 10:30-11:00 am Central Branch Oak Bay Branch Tuesdays, 10:30-11:00 am Juan de Fuca Branch Wednesdays, 11:30 am-12:00 pm Nellie McClung Branch Thursdays, 11:30 am-12:00 pm Saanich Centennial Branch Fridays, 11:30 am-12:00 pm Bruce Hutchison Branch Esquimalt Branch

Community Connections Join us after select Baby Times to learn about child development, nutrition, child care options and other parenting topics. Regular guest speakers include dietitians and nurses from Island Health and referral counsellors from Child Care Resource and Referral (CCRR). Check gvpl.ca for topics and locations. Drop-in.

Family Storytime For young children and their families; children under 3 must be accompanied by an adult. Fun-filled stories, songs, rhymes and puppets. Drop-in. March 1-May 19 (No programs March 30 or April 2) Mondays, 10:30-11:00 am Langford Heritage Branch Nellie McClung Branch Tuesdays, 10:30-11:00 am Oak Bay Branch Saanich Centennial Branch Wednesdays, 10:30-11:00 am Central Saanich Branch Goudy Branch (March 7 and 14 only) Esquimalt Branch

Program registration begins February 19. 2

Thursdays, 10:30-11:00 am Bruce Hutchison Branch Central Branch Juan de Fuca Branch Fridays, 10:30-11:00 am Central Branch Juan de Fuca Branch Oak Bay Branch Saturdays, 10:30-11:00 am Nellie McClung Branch Saturdays, 11:00-11:30 am Saanich Centennial Branch

St. Patrickâ€˜s Day Storytime For ages 3-5. Enjoy stories, songs and a simple craft to celebrate the magic of fairies, wee folk and St. Patrickâ€™s Day. Registered. March 14, 10:30-11:30 am Juan de Fuca Branch March 17, 10:30-11:30 am Central Branch

Story Club For ages 6-9. Join Story Club and engage with other kids over books, games and crafts. In this series, kids will listen to stories, share their thoughts and experiences, and enjoy group activities. Snacks provided. Registered. March 15, April 19, May 17, 3:30-4:30 pm Central Branch

Living Books For ages 6-9. A workshop experience for the young reader, complete with favourite characters, crafts, role play and movement activities. Experience full-body reading. Registered. March 19, 2:30-3:30 pm Nellie McClung Branch March 22, 2:30-3:30 pm Central Branch

Fun With Drawing and Watercolours For ages 10-12. Join art teacher Sandi Henrich for a workshop using drawing and watercolour techniques to create a piece of art inspired by the spring season and the world of your imagination. Registered. March 20, 2:00-3:00 pm Juan de Fuca Branch

Explore Engineering For ages 9-12. Join an engineer from Engineers and Geoscientists BC to learn more about what engineers do, and participate in an activity. Registered. March 21, 2:00-3:00 pm Saanich Centennial Branch March 23, 2:00-3:00 pm Bruce Hutchison Branch

Art Inspired by Spring For ages 6-9. Join art teacher Sandi Henrich for a drawing and painting workshop to create colourful artwork inspired by the blossoming of the spring season. Registered. March 22, 2:00-3:00 pm Oak Bay Branch

Lego at the Library For ages 7-10. Listen to stories and have fun with the libraryâ€™s Lego. Registered. March 22, 2:30-3:30 pm Nellie McClung Branch March 28, 2:30-3:30 pm Juan de Fuca Branch

Alien Escape Room For ages 10-12. Aliens have taken over the school. You are locked in. Solve clues, puzzles and maps to escape and get to Spring Break. March 23, 2:30-3:00 pm & 3:00-3:30 pm Esquimalt Branch March 28, 2:30-3:00 pm & 3:00-3:30 pm Oak Bay Branch

Little Lego at the Library For ages 4-6; parents and caregivers are encouraged to attend. Listen to stories and have fun with the libraryâ€™s Lego. Registered. March 23, 3:30-4:30 pm April 20, 3:30-4:30 pm Bruce Hutchison Branch

Everybunny Loves Easter For ages 5-8. Hop over to the library for egg-citing stories, games and an egg-cellent craft. Registered. March 27, 10:30-11:30 am Esquimalt Branch March 27, 2:30-3:30 pm Langford Heritage Branch

Program registration begins February 19. 4

Shadow Puppet Magic For ages 6-9. Light and shadow come together in enchanting ways in shadow puppet plays. Be awed by the beauty of this performance art, and then learn to create your own shadow puppets. Registered. March 27, 10:30-11:30 am Nellie McClung Branch

Poetry in Motion For ages 6-12. Artist Veronika McKee will lead the group to create a modern dance using a poem as the framework. Wear loose-fitting clothing and bring a water bottle. Registered. March 28, 9:30-11:30 am Central Branch March 28, 2:30-4:30 pm Nellie McClung Branch

Calling all Cottontails! For ages 3-5. Hop, hop, hop on over to the library for stories and songs about bunnies, chicks and everything that makes spring so egg-citing. Make a craft, too. Registered. March 28, 10:30-11:30 am Central Branch March 29, 10:30-11:30 am Oak Bay Branch April 4, 10:30-11:30 am Goudy Branch

Colour Me Ozobots For ages 8-12. Join the Science Venture team for a Codemakers workshop and explore the science of light and colour by programming mini Ozobot robots. Registered. March 29, 2:00-3:00 pm Esquimalt Branch April 20, 2:00-3:00 pm Saanich Centennial Branch

Traditional Indigenous Storytime For families. Join Surrounded by Cedar Children and Family Services for a monthly storytelling group featuring traditional storytellers, art and songs. Registered. March 31, April 28, May 26, 10:00-11:30 am Bruce Hutchison Branch

Pyjama Storytime For young children and their families; children under 3 must be accompanied by an adult. Wear your PJs, and cuddle up for stories at the library. Bring your favourite stuffie. Registered. April 6, 6:30-7:00 pm Nellie McClung Branch May 12, 10:30-11:30 am Langford Heritage Branch

Starry Nights For ages 3-5. Explore space through stories, songs and rhymes and create an out-of-this-world craft. Registered. April 10, 10:30-11:30 am Nellie McClung Branch

Discovery Lab For ages 3-5. Imagine, create and build using STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, Mathematics) learning. Listen to stories and apply your knowledge in hands-on activities. Registered. April 10, 10:30-11:30 am Esquimalt Branch April 11, 10:30-11:30 am Oak Bay Branch

Grow Your Own Story For ages 3-5. Enjoy a garden-themed storytime and make a craft. Registered. April 14, 10:30-11:30 am Bruce Hutchison Branch

Fantastic Structures For ages 7-10. Join artist April Caverhill to construct a 3D structure using paper, tape, glue and tons of imagination. Registered. April 20, 10:30-11:30 am Nellie McClung Branch April 20, 3:00-4:00 pm Oak Bay Branch

Program registration begins February 19. 6

Origami: The Art of Paper Folding For ages 7-12. Discover the joyful art of origami with local origami enthusiast Stephen Tran. No cutting or gluing, just paper folding pure and simple. Registered. April 20, 2:00-3:00 pm Esquimalt Branch May 5, 1:30-2:30 pm Oak Bay Branch

Lumberjanes: Library to the Max For ages 10-12. Calling all Lumber Jumbies! Solve a puzzle or two before celebrating with a camp snack and making a scout badge, all while listening to some awesome mixtapes made by your favourite Janes. Registered. April 20, 2:30-4:00 pm Central Branch

Ready, Set, Grow! For ages 5-8. Celebrate Earth Day with stories about peace, nature and Earth. Make a green pet to take home and watch its hair grow. Registered. April 21, 2:30-3:30 pm Esquimalt Branch

Grossology For ages 6-9. Get gross! Learn about things that are slippery, smelly and green, and take home something thatâ€™s very gross. Registered. April 28, 2:30-3:30 pm Esquimalt Branch

Musical Storytime For ages 3-5. Take part in music-making and storytelling in this action-packed session led by Nicole Payie, early childhood music educator at the Victoria Conservatory of Music. Registered. May 1, 1:30-2:15 pm Esquimalt Branch

May the Force Be With You For ages 8-12. Join us in a galaxy not so far away for Star Warsinspired stories, activities and crafts. Registered. May 4, 2:30-3:30 pm Juan de Fuca Branch

Free Comic Book Day Everyone welcome. Dress up like your favourite comic character, enter to win awesome prizes and check out the library’s selection of comics, manga and graphic novels. Everyone will receive a free comic – or two if you dress up! While supplies last. Drop-in. May 5, 9:00 am-12:00 pm Central Branch

Spanish-English Storytime For young children and their families; children under 3 must be accompanied by an adult. Enjoy a bilingual storytime and craft, and learn simple Spanish-language songs and phrases. Registered. May 5, 10:30-11:30 am Oak Bay Branch

Asian Heritage Month: Mandarin Seeds For young children and their families; children under 3 must be accompanied by an adult. Enjoy a fun and interactive storytime and craft in Mandarin. Registered. May 5, 2:30-3:30 pm Nellie McClung Branch

Sensory Storytime: Dog‘s Colourful Day For ages 3-5; maximum of 2 children per accompanying adult. This program features sensory-rich stories, movement and songs appropriate for preschoolers with autism or sensory processing issues and preschoolers who thrive on routine. Parent and caregiver participation is required. Registered. May 9, 10:30-11:30 am Central Branch

Family Fort Night For children and their families. Enjoy an evening storytime and build your own fort in the library. Bring your family, a flashlight and your imagination. Registered. May 9, 6:30-7:30 pm Juan de Fuca Branch

Storytime is a...Drag Everyone welcome; children under 3 must be accompanied by an adult. Join Victoria’s Drag Queens, Kings, and Things for a fun afternoon. Enjoy a storytime, music, sing-along, crafts and games. Registered. May 12, 2:30-3:30 pm Nellie McClung Branch

Program registration begins February 19. 8

Teddy Bears‘ Picnic For ages 3-5. If you go down to the library, you’re sure of a storytime. Bring along your favourite teddy bear and enjoy lovely songs, stories and a small snack. Registered. May 15, 10:30-11:30 am Esquimalt Branch

Asian Heritage Month: Japanese and English Picture Card Theatre For ages 3-5. Enjoy a bilingual Japanese/English storytime using the “picture theatre” format from Japan. Make an art project after listening to traditional folktales told by Wakana Takai-MacLean, a certified translator. Registered. May 17, 10:30-11:00 am Central Branch

Story Buddies Young children are paired with volunteer tweens to write and illustrate an original storybook. Together, Little Buddies and Big Buddies will use their imaginations to produce a keepsake that will become part of their life’s story.

Little Buddies For ages 4-6. Registered. March 20, 2:30-3:30 pm Oak Bay Branch April 20, 2:30-3:30 pm Juan de Fuca Branch May 25, 4:00-5:00 pm Esquimalt Branch

Tween Volunteers

For ages 10-12. We provide Big Buddy training and, upon completion, a certificate for volunteering. First-time volunteers, please complete the Volunteer Referral Form at gvpl.ca/volunteer. Registered.

March 20, 2:00-3:30 pm Oak Bay Branch April 20, 2:00-3:30 pm Juan de Fuca Branch May 25, 3:30-5:00 pm Esquimalt Branch

Teens Teen Volunteers: Button-Making For ages 13-18. Earn volunteer hours by running our easy-to-use button-making machine at GVPL's Free Comic Book Day event. First time volunteers, please complete the Teen Volunteer Referral form at gvpl.ca/volunteer. Registered. May 5, 9:00-10:00 am OR 10:00-11:00 am OR 11:00 am-12:00 pm Central Branch

Teen Writersâ€˜ Reception Everyone welcome. Join us for an evening that showcases original creative writing by teens. Winners of the Teen Writing Contest will read aloud from their short stories and poems, receive their prizes and be celebrated as new writers. Registered. May 9, 7:00-8:30 pm Central Branch

DigiLab Advisory Group For ages 13-18. Recommend new equipment for the DigiLab and start planning a program, all while logging volunteer hours and developing leadership skills. The DigiLab Advisory Group meets once a month. First time volunteers, please complete the Teen Volunteer Referral form at gvpl.ca/volunteer. Registered. March 2, April 6, May 4, 4:00-5:30 pm Esquimalt Branch

Tech Night For ages 13-18. Create and innovate with DigiLabâ€™s tech toolkit, including Alienware laptops and Spheros. Registered. March 8, 7:00-8:30 pm Saanich Centennial Branch

10 Program registration begins February 19.

Intro to Arduino For ages 13-18. Learn about Arduino, an open-source platform that teaches coding and electronics through easy-to-use hardware and software. Find inspiration in some ready-made Arduino projects and learn to make your own in this two-part program. Registered. March 21, 3:00-4:30 pm March 22, 3:00-4:30 pm Esquimalt Branch

Digital Art For ages 13-18. Bring your tablet or iPad and explore free art creation apps. Participants can also make virtual art with DigiLab’s Tilt Brush, which lets you paint a 3D space using virtual reality. Registered. April 20, 7:00-8:30 pm Nellie McClung Branch

Star Wars Droids For ages 13-18. Build or program a Star Wars droid using DigiLab’s Littlebits and Spheros. Snacks included. Registered. April 28, 3:30-5:00 pm Juan de Fuca Branch

Phone Photography For ages 13-18. Learn how to take the photos on your phone to the next level. Bring your own handheld device or use one of DigiLab’s. Snacks included. Registered. May 11, 4:00-5:30 pm Central Branch

Explore VR For ages 13-18. Climb a peak in Utah or attend a lantern festival by moonlight. Do all this and more with Google Cardboard’s do-it-yourself virtual reality headset and a smartphone. Registered. May 18, 3:30-5:00 pm Central Saanich Branch

Switch up your Game! We‘ve added Nintendo Switch to our games collection. All of our games may be borrowed for seven days at a time. Search the library catalogue at gvpl.ca for ”nintendo switch“.

Adults Effective Tax Strategies A chartered professional accountant leads this program to help you minimize the amount of income tax you pay and better understand Canada’s tax system. Registered. March 1, 7:00-8:30 pm Central Branch

Deans‘ Lecture Series Research shapes the way we live and think. Meet distinguished members of the faculties of the University of Victoria and learn about their research interests. Check the calendar at continuingstudies.uvic.ca for lecture topics and schedules. To register, call UVic's Continuing Studies Department at 250-472-4747. March 2, 9, 16, April 6, 13, 27, 12:30-1:45 pm Central Branch

Victoria Seed Library: Member Orientation Learn how you can borrow seeds from the Victoria Seed Library and how to dry seeds for return at the end of the season. You’ll also have the opportunity to connect with other seed savers and share resources, tips and techniques for backyard growing. This orientation is required to participate in Seed Swaps. Registered. March 3, 17, 31, April 14, 10:00-11:30 am Central Branch

Victoria Seed Library: Seed Swap Sign out the varieties that interest you, and then return seeds from your healthiest or tastiest crops to share with others. Prerequisite: Seed Library Member Orientation. The Seed Swap table alternates between the Central Branch rotunda and courtyard. Drop-in. March 3, 10, 17, 24, 31; April 7, 14, 21, 10:00 am-1:00 pm Central Branch

Master Gardeners at GVPL Questions about plants or pests? Save up your questions and drop by the rotunda of the Central Branch to speak with master gardeners from the Victoria Master Gardener Association. Kindly bring your specimens in a sealed bag. Drop-in. March 3, 17, 31, April 14, 10:00 am-1:00 pm Central Branch

12 Program registration begins February 19.

Scrabble at the Library How do you spell fun? S-C-R-A-B-B-L-E! Enjoy competitive games of Scrabble every Tuesday evening. Drop-in. Tuesdays, March 6-May 29, 5:45-8:45 pm Central Branch, second floor meeting room Tuesdays, March 6-May 29, 7:00-8:30 pm Central Saanich Branch

The Fukushima Disaster and Radiation in the Pacific Ocean: What Does It Mean for B.C.? Learn more about the impact of the Fukushima disaster on North America’s West Coast, including expected radiation concentrations. Presented by Jay Cullen of the University of Victoria’s Speakers Bureau. Registered. March 6, 7:00-8:30 pm Central Branch

UVic Ideafest: Unravelling History Using Advanced Microscopy Learn how a simple question about the fibres used in an ancient Coast Salish blanket launched an international investigation. Museums in different countries collaborated with First Nations from Alaska, British Columbia and Washington state to solve the mystery. This story is a perfect example of how science and art can validate history. Drop-in. March 7, 12:00-1:00 pm Central Branch

Queer Abilities Drop-In A group for anyone in the LGBTQ2+ community living with a disability. Presented by AIDS Vancouver Island. Drop-in. March 7, April 4, May 2, 5:00-6:30 pm Central Branch

Chess at the Library Need a chess mate to put in checkmate? Drop-in for weekly chess games in the library. Sets are available to borrow from the Information Desk. Drop-in. Wednesdays, March 7-May 30, 6:00-8:45 pm Central Branch

Victoria Writers‘ Society Meeting Join the Victoria Writers’ Society for their monthly meetings on the first Wednesday of each month. Drop-in. March 7, April 4, May 2, 7:00-8:45 pm Central Branch

Introduction to Google Translate: “We Speak Translate” Learn how to communicate with English language learners and newcomers using the Google Translate app. Bring your own tablet or smartphone for the hands-on portion of the training, or just follow along with the demonstration. Presentation by Kate Longpre of the Inter-Cultural Association of Greater Victoria, based on the “We Speak Translate” program. Registered. March 8, 2:00-3:00 pm Juan de Fuca Branch

Accessing Government Disability Benefits Find out how to access government disability benefits and how to financially support a disabled family member without them losing access to these same benefits. Learn how to qualify for tax credits and government grants and how to transfer wealth to a dependent family member who is disabled. Presented by Manulife Securities. Registered. March 8, 7:00-8:30 pm Saanich Centennial Branch

International Women’s Day: Panel on Feminism A panel of academics, professionals, activists and members of the community will discuss current social issues from an intersectional feminist perspective, a perspective that recognizes there is no one-size-fits-all experience for women. The panel will be moderated by Kat Sark, a writer, scholar, activist and instructor at the University of Victoria. Registered. March 8, 7:00-8:30 pm Central Branch

WordsThaw Prize Gala Celebrate and listen to the shortlisted authors of The Malahat Review’s second annual WordsThaw Prize. Contest judge Arleen Paré will announce the winners for the poetry and micro-text categories. Drop-in. March 8, 7:00-8:30 pm Central Branch

Introduction to GVPL‘s Digital Collections Explore the library’s website and digital collections, and learn how to access ebooks, watch movies, listen to music, learn a new language and more. Bring your smartphone or laptop, or use one of the library’s computers. Registered. March 12, 10:30 am-12:00 pm Saanich Centennial Branch

14 Program registration begins February 19.

Beyond Binary: Gender Diversity in Our Communities Gender identity and expression are unique pieces of our lives. Explore best practices on how to create a positive environment for transgender, non-binary and two-spirit people in your family and community. Presented by Ambit Gender Diversity Consulting. Registered. March 13, 7:00-8:30 pm Central Branch

Canadian Council of the Blind, Get Together with Technology This program helps those who are visually impaired learn to use low-vision and blindness-related technology, like Zoomtext and JAWS, as well as online sites like Facebook and Twitter. Join us for a monthly drop-in on Wednesday afternoons. Drop-in. March 14, April 4, May 2, 1:00-3:30 pm Central Branch

Indigenous Stories Book Club Join Carmen Rodriquez de France, assistant professor of Indigenous education at the University of Victoria, for a book club focused on the works of Canadian Indigenous peoples. Explore their history, culture and ways of being, as expressed through their writings. Reading will be emailed in advance of the program. This is a monthly program from March to December. Registered. March 14, April 11, May 9, 1:30-2:30 pm Nellie McClung Branch

South Island Gender Variant Drop-In A drop-in group for trans, gender queer, two-spirit and gender variant individuals on the South Island. A safe place to come together, share and support each other. Presented by AIDS Vancouver Island. Drop-in. March 14, April 11, May 9, 6:00-8:00 pm Central Branch, second floor meeting room March 29, April 26, May 31, 6:00-8:00 pm Central Branch, Community Room

Conversations for a One Planet Region Join a group of community members for a presentation and discussion that explores the environmental, social and economic issues related to the concept of a One Planet Region, an initiative to make sustainable living a reality. Drop-in. March 15, April 12, May 17, 5:00-7:00 pm Central Branch

Vancouver Island Trans Masculine Support Group Trans masculine people of all ages, at any stage of their journeys, are welcome to join this safe space to connect, share and support each other. Meetings are held on the third Thursday of the month. For more information, email vitransmasc@gmail.com. Drop-in. March 15, April 19, May 17, 6:00-7:30 pm Central Branch, second floor meeting room

Preparing and Making the Most of Your Retirement Join Donna McCaw, author of It’s Your Time, to learn how to plan a retirement that fits you. Registered. March 15, 7:00-8:30 pm Oak Bay Branch

VIPIRG Conference: New Reflections, Ongoing Conversations Share perspectives and join conversations about the environment, self-care, non-profits and oppression, and explore how to thrive, survive and create stronger communities. For more information, go to vipirg.ca/annual-conference. Presented by the Vancouver Island Public Interest Research Group. Drop-in. March 17, 12:30-5:00 pm Central Branch March 18, 1:00-4:30 pm Central Branch

Kwädąy Dän Ts’ìnchį: Teachings from Long Ago Person Found Preserved in glacial ice, Kwädąy Dän Ts’ìnchį man, discovered in a northern British Columbia provincial park in 1999, raised many questions, but offered answers, too. Join contributors to Kwädąy Dän Ts’ìnchį: Teachings from Long Ago Person Found as they discuss how scientific analysis and cultural knowledge helped piece together this man’s life, a life that ended just as Europeans were about to arrive in the northwest. Presented in partnership with Royal BC Museum and Oak Bay Archives. Registered. March 21, 2:00-3:30 pm Oak Bay Branch

Local Songwriters‘ Meet-Up Local songwriters gather to share new songs and ideas and develop their craft together. Acoustic instruments (or a keyboard with a low-volume amp) are welcome. Bring a few copies of songs you are working on, and we will listen and workshop them in small groups. Drop-in. March 21, April 18, May 16, 5:00-8:30 pm Central Branch

16 Program registration begins February 19.

Seed Library: Propagating and Growing Native Plants Join Kristen Miskelly of Saanich Native Plants for an in-depth look at propagating and growing native plants in the Capital Region. Presented in partnership with LifeCycles Project Society. Registered. March 22, 6:30-8:30 pm Central Branch

The ID Project Lost all your ID? Can't afford to replace it? Come to the ID Clinic and get help replacing your ID. The ID Project is supported by Pro Bono Students Canada (UVic Chapter), the Downtown Service Providers Committee of Victoria and the Constituency Office of Carole James, MLA. Registration begins at 10:30 am at the Central Branch. March 23, 2:00-5:00 pm Central Branch, Study Room 3

Author Bruce Fraser: Noah‘s Raven Noah's Raven, the third and final book in Bruce Fraser‘s Chilcotin Saga, is a gripping political thriller that pits a Trump-like billionaire presidential hopeful against a Chilcotin elder and a novice reporter. Drop-in. March 23, 7:00-9:00 pm Oak Bay Branch

Author Jack Knox: Opportunity Knox Join Times Colonist writer Jack Knox as he reads from Opportunity Knox: Twenty Years of Award-Losing Humour Writing. From stoned rats and man buns, to hockey riots and letters from the Canada Revenue Agency, Jack’s musings will have you in stitches. Registered. March 24, 2:00-3:00 pm Central Branch

Education and Support Group for Families of Gender Diverse Children Join Gender Spectacular Families Support Group to find support and learn about topics related to gender diversity. This group is open to parents, caregivers and families of trans, two-spirit and gender-variant children and youth. Each session will cover a different topic. To register or learn more, email gendercreativetransvictoria@gmail.com. March 25, April 22, May 27, 1:30-3:30 pm Nellie McClung Branch

Monday Book Club Join us for a monthly book discussion group featuring titles chosen from different genres and available in multiple formats: ebook, e-audiobook, books on CD and print. Read or listen to a pre-selected book at home, discuss it at the monthly meeting and hear about other titles to enjoy. Registered. 2:00-3:30 pm, Central Branch March 26, H is for Hawk by Helen Macdonald April 30, Me Before You by Jojo Moyes May 28, When Breath Becomes Air by Paul Kalanithi

Chronic Pain Self-Management Program The Chronic Pain Self-Management Program is a peer-led, patienteducation program offered over six weeks by the University of Victoria Institute on Aging and Lifelong Health and Self-Management BC. The program uses group facilitation to provide information and teach practical skills on managing chronic pain issues. Register by email at selfmgmt@uvic.ca or call 1-866-902-3767. March 27-May 1, every Tuesday, from 1:00-3:30 pm Nellie McClung Branch April 4-May 9, every Wednesday, from 1:00-3:30 pm Juan de Fuca Branch

Westshore Writers‘ Group Writers of all levels and genres are welcome to meet and discuss the craft of writing. Drop-in. March 28, April 25, May 30, 7:00-8:30 pm Juan de Fuca Branch

Victorian Book Club Enjoy reading and discussing classic Victorian novels by authors such as the Brontës, Charles Dickens and others. Registered. March 29, April 26, May 31, 6:30-7:30 pm Oak Bay Branch

The Search for Life in the Universe Take an astrobiological tour of our solar system and learn about the newly discovered planets of our Milky Way galaxy and the quest for alien contact. Presented by Jon Willis, a professor from the University of Victoria‘s Speakers Bureau. Registered. April 5, 7:00-8:30 pm Central Branch

18 Program registration begins February 19.

Internet Basics 1 Learn the basics of searching the Internet. Prerequisite: ability to use a computer mouse. Registered. April 6, 10:00-11:30 am Central Branch

Repair Café Have an alarm clock that won't buzz or a pair of pants that needs mending? Don't toss it! Bring it to the Repair Café where you can get help fixing household items. Drop-in. April 7, 9:30 am-12:30 pm Central Branch

Introduction to Lynda.com Watch a demonstration of GVPL’s new e-resource, Lynda.com, an online learning platform with a video library of thousands of courses taught by industry experts. Expand your business, software and creative skills, whether you’re a student, leader, designer or someone with an appetite to improve. Drop-in. April 10, 2:30-4:00 pm Juan de Fuca Branch

Microsoft Word Basics Learn the basics of word processing with Microsoft Word 2013. Prerequisite: Ability to use a computer mouse. Registered. April 12, 2:00-3:30 pm Central Branch

Internet Basics 2 Building on the skills you learned in Internet Basics 1, you will learn some tips and tricks for effective searching, and you will explore using browsers, search engines and directories in more depth. Prerequisite: Internet Basics 1 or equivalent training or experience. Registered. April 13, 10:00-11:30 am Central Branch

Poetry Month: Get Poemed! Have you ever been Poemed? Be among the pleasantly surprised and entertained when poet Wendy Morton delivers her trademark “Random Acts of Poetry.” Tell her a story, and she'll quickly turn it into a personalized gift of verse. Drop-in. April 14, 11:00 am-1:00 pm Juan de Fuca Branch April 14, 2:00-4:00 pm Saanich Centennial Branch

Introduction to Facebook Join us for a demonstration of this popular social networking site. Registered. April 16, 10:30 am-12:00 pm Saanich Centennial Branch

National Canadian Film Day Be part of the world’s largest film festival. National Canadian Film Day is a massive, one-day celebration of Canadian cinema across the country organized by REEL Canada. Drop-in.

Fido The comedic story of a boy and his pet, a large rotting zombie with a penchant for eating the neighbours.

April 18, 6:30-8:30 pm Central Branch

The Grand Seduction The story of a small fishing village in Newfoundland that goes to great – and comedic – lengths to convince a doctor to move there.

April 18, 6:30-8:30 pm Bruce Hutchison Branch

Passchendaele A moving World War II story starring the film's writer and director, Paul Gross.

April 18, 6:30-8:30 pm Juan de Fuca Branch

Taste the Island Join three local food writers including Rebecca Wellman, author of First, We Brunch, for an evening of conversation about eating, sipping and writing on Vancouver Island. Registered. April 19, 7:00-8:30 pm Central Branch

Seed Library: Saving Seed From Flowers Join a local garden expert in an engaging conversation about how to grow many of Victoria’s most prominent ornamental flowers and save their seeds. Presented in partnership with LifeCycles Project Society. Registered. April 25, 6:30-8:30 pm Central Branch

20 Program registration begins February 19.

Professional Editors Association of Vancouver Island Monthly meeting of the Professional Editors Association of Vancouver Island (PEAVI), a network of independent editors serving its members and the wider community. Drop-in. April 25, May 30, 7:00-8:30 pm Central Branch

A Very Social Life in Early Oak Bay Local historian Jean Sparks will take you on a virtual springtime visit to the homes, gardens and families of early Oak Bay, featuring archival photographs selected from the Oak Bay Archives‘ collection of family albums. Presented in partnership with Oak Bay Archives. Registered. April 26, 2:00-3:30 pm Oak Bay Branch

Be Your Own Travel Agent Explore online resources and apps to help you plan your own trip. Registered. April 26, 2:30-3:30 pm Juan de Fuca Branch

Beginner ESL Conversation Class Join us for a six-week beginner ESL conversation class. Presented in partnership with the Victoria Immigrant and Refugee Centre Society. Registered. Thursdays, April 26-May 31, 7:00-8:30 pm Nellie McClung Branch

Elinor Dunsmuir: An Extraordinary Life Elinor Dunsmuir was an intellectually gifted member of western Canada’s wealthiest family. She devoted her life to the arts and spent a good portion of it in Europe, though she reluctantly returned to live out her final days at Hatley Park (now Royal Roads University) and in Comox. In this illustrated talk, Craigdarroch Castle‘s Bruce Davies delves into Elinor’s extraordinary life and creative output, including her work as a composer. Presented in partnership with Craigdarroch Castle. Registered. April 28, 2:00-3:30 pm Central Branch

Poetry Month: Poetry and Paper Craft Join City of Victoria Poet Laureate Yvonne Blomer and local poet Wendy Morton for a wonderful afternoon of poetry and paper crafts. Registered. April 28, 2:00-3:30 pm Juan de Fuca Branch

Poet Lynn Strongin: Seeking After the Lost Join Pulitzer Prize-nominated poet Lynn Strongin as she reads from her latest work, Power to the Meek, told through the voice of an American Civil War boy soldier. Registered. April 28, 2:00-3:00 pm Oak Bay Branch

Belfry Booksmack Get Booksmacked! Come out for an evening of great book, music, audiobook and film recommendations with GVPL’s finest. Bring your library card to sign out material on the spot. Drop-in. April 30, 7:30-9:00 pm The Belfry Theatre, 1291 Gladstone Ave.

The Language of Family Join a selection of contributors to the forthcoming book The Language of Family: Stories of Bonds and Belonging. Through excerpts from their stories, essays and poems, the speakers will share their differing perspectives on what family means to them. Presented in partnership with the Royal BC Museum. Registered. May 5, 2:00-3:30 pm Central Branch

Cybersecurity 101 Learn what risks come with being online, how to reduce those risks, and what you can do to protect yourself from online threats. Registered. May 8, 2:00-3:30 pm Nellie McClung Branch

Asian Heritage Month: Japanese Manners Join Hitomi Harama, a Kimono and Japanese culture specialist, for a fun and informative talk about Japanese culture and manners. You‘ll learn everything from how to eat sushi to how to greet one another. Registered. May 10, 12:30-1:30 pm Central Branch

Asian Heritage Month: Japanese Tea Ceremony The Japanese tea ceremony, called chado or the Way of Tea, is one of Japan’s time-honoured traditional arts. Experience the ceremonial preparation and presentation of tea, influenced by Zen Buddhism and encompassing the principals of harmony, respect, purity and tranquility. Presented by the Urasenke Nagomi Tea Circle. Registered. Note: Due to the sacred nature of this ceremony, we will not be able to admit late arrivals. May 12, 11:00 am-12:00 pm Central Branch

22 Program registration begins February 19.

Paper Jewellery Join artist Cathy Lee and learn to make simple paper pins, brooches, pendants and beads. Keep your piece of art, give it as a gift, or decorate your parcels for Mother's Day. Registered. May 12, 2:00-3:00 pm Oak Bay Branch

Asian Heritage Month: Watercolour on Masa Paper Join watercolour artist Richard Wong in a painting workshop inspired by pandas. No experience necessary. Registered. May 19, 1:00-3:00 pm Central Branch

Introduction to Google Drive Learn how you can back up, save and share your digital information in the cloud, using Google Drive. Bring your smartphone or laptop or use one of our computers for the hands-on portion of the program. Registered. May 25, 10:00-11:30 am Central Branch

Seed Library: Healthy Soil for a Hearty Garden Join the Compost Education Centre for a fascinating look into the life of soil, and learn how to keep your garden soil rich and healthy year-round. Presented in partnership with LifeCycles Project Society. Registered. May 26, 10:00-11:30 am Central Branch

Lynda.com has thousands of courses and videos to teach you the right skills for the job. Leadership, time management, web and interface design, communications, engineering and much more.

Branches and Hours Central Branch 735 Broughton St Monday, Friday, Saturday.............................................................................9:00 am-6:00 pm Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday.............................................................9:00 am-9:00 pm Sunday.(until April 29)...............................................................................................1:00-5:00 pm

Bruce Hutchison Branch

4636 Elk Lake Dr at Saanich Commonwealth Place Monday, Friday, Saturday.......................................................................... 10:00 am-6:00 pm Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday.......................................................... 10:00 am-9:00 pm Sunday (until April 29)...............................................................................................1:00-5:00 pm

Central Saanich Branch 1209 Clarke Rd, Brentwood Bay Monday, Tuesday, Thursday................................................................... 10:00 am-9:00 pm Wednesday, Friday, Saturday................................................................10:00 am-6:00 pm Sunday.(until April 29).............................................................................................. 1:00-5:00 pm

Emily Carr Branch 101-3521 Blanshard St at Uptown Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday, Saturday....................10:00 am-6:00 pm Thursday................................................................................................................ 10:00 am-9:00 pm Sunday.(until April 29)...............................................................................................1:00-5:00 pm

Esquimalt Branch 1231 Esquimalt Rd Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Saturday.....................................10:00 am-6:00 pm Thursday, Friday...............................................................................................10:00 am-9:00 pm Sunday.(until April 29).............................................................................................. 1:00-5:00 pm

Goudy Branch 119-755 Goldstream Ave Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Saturday.........................................9:30 am-5:30 pm Thursday, Friday.................................................................................................. 9:30 am-6:00 pm Sunday (year round).........................................................................................1:00 pm-5:00 pm

Juan de Fuca Branch 1759 Island Hwy Monday, Friday, Saturday.......................................................................... 10:00 am-6:00 pm Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday..........................................................10:00 am-9:00 pm Sunday.(until April 29).............................................................................................. 1:00-5:00 pm

Langford Heritage Branch 102-1314 Lakepoint Way Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday.......................... 10:00 am-6:00 pm Wednesday......................................................................................................... 10:00 am-9:00 pm Sunday.(until April 29)...............................................................................................1:00-5:00 pm Library vending machine …..................................................................................... always open

Nellie McClung Branch 3950 Cedar Hill Rd Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Saturday..................................... 10:00 am-6:00 pm Thursday, Friday............................................................................................... 10:00 am-9:00 pm Sunday.(until April 29)...............................................................................................1:00-5:00 pm

Oak Bay Branch 1442 Monterey Ave at Monterey Rec. Centre Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Saturday..................................... 10:00 am-6:00 pm Thursday, Friday............................................................................................... 10:00 am-9:00 pm Sunday.(until April 29)...............................................................................................1:00-5:00 pm

Saanich Centennial Branch 3110 Tillicum Rd at Pearkes Arena Monday, Friday, Saturday.......................................................................... 10:00 am-6:00 pm Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday.......................................................... 10:00 am-9:00 pm Sunday (until April 29)...............................................................................................1:00-5:00 pm

sxʷeŋ’xʷəŋ taŋ’exw James Bay Branch 385 Menzies Street Opening Spring 2018, see gvpl.ca for details.

24 Program registration begins February 19.